Iran receives US response as ceasefire diplomacy continues
Iran has said it received the latest US proposal on restoring a ceasefire. The announcement came several days after US President Donald Trump said he had rejected the plan.
Tehran’s proposal links the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to the lifting of the blockade imposed by the United States on Iranian ports. Qatar continues its mediation efforts between the parties.
US withdrawal from Iraq raises security concerns
The United States has withdrawn its remaining forces from Iraq, ending a military presence that began in 2003. Residents in the Iraqi city of Basra took to the streets in convoys to mark the withdrawal.
Iran and its allies welcomed the departure of US troops. However, some Iraqis and analysts have warned that the resulting security vacuum could strengthen Iran-backed armed groups or give dormant cells of the “Islamic State” terrorist organization an opportunity to reorganize.
Saudi Arabia seeks support amid Houthi attacks
As the conflict in Yemen expands, Saudi Arabia is facing growing pressure from Houthi missile and drone attacks.
UAE Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with Saudi leaders in Riyadh. It was the first visit by a senior UAE official to Saudi Arabia since serious disagreements emerged between the two Gulf countries.
Trump raises possibility of new military operation against Iran
US President Donald Trump has continued warning Iran as the war enters its eighth month. He said Tehran’s situation was “very bad” and that Iran would eventually back down.
Trump’s remarks came as Washington considers its next steps, diplomatic efforts continue and tensions remain high around the Strait of Hormuz.
Incident aboard Flydubai aircraft under investigation
The co-pilot of a Flydubai aircraft flying to Tel Aviv allegedly stabbed the pilot, sending the plane into a sharp descent. Passengers and crew members subdued the individual, and the aircraft landed safely in Saudi Arabia.
Israeli authorities said they might participate in the investigation into the incident. Another aircraft was sent to Saudi Arabia to bring the passengers back. The passengers have already arrived at Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport.